Joseph James Kline

Joseph Kline, age 97, of St. James, passed away on Saturday, April 17, 2021 at the Good Samaritan Society - Pleasant View in St. James. A private Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, April 21, 2021 at St. James Catholic Church in St. James with Father Timothy Hall as celebrant. Burial with military honors will follow at Trebon Cemetery in Montgomery, MN. Joseph James Kline was born October 30, 1923 in Erin Township, Rice County near Faribault, MN, the son of Frank and Katherine (Uhlir) Kline. Joe was united in marriage to Bozena Bess Vrzal on February 1, 1943 in Montgomery. Joe work for Minnegasco for 37 years retiring in 1984. Joe served in the Army during WWII from 1944 to 1946 serving in the European Theatre. Joe was a member of St. James Catholic Church where he served as a Trustee, on the Church council and was a Lector for many years. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus and Past Grand Knight. Joe was also a member of the St. James VFW and past Post Commander, the American Legion and Fraternal Order of Eagles. He enjoyed reading, gardening and taking walks. He is survived by his children; Connie (Al) Konz of St. James, Linnea (Dennis) Wick of Mankato, Dennie (Barb) Kline of Willmar, Bob (Linda) Kline of St. James, and 10 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren and 11 great-great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his wife Bess, parents, sisters; Evelyn, Rosella and Lucille.